Goulds Pumps XHD - IOM - Manual (Page 50)

Commissioning, Startup, Operation, and Shutdown
V-Belt drive operation
V belt drive installation checks
Use the following steps and guidelines to make sure that the v-belt drive is properly installed
and that the belts are properly tensioned.
1. Operate the drive for a few minutes as the belts seat into the sheave grooves.
2. Observe the operation of the drive under its highest load condition, which is usually at
startup.
3. A slight bowing of the slack side of the drive indicates proper tension.
4. The following indicate improper belt tensioning:
a) If the slack side of the drive remains too taut during peak load, the drive is too tight.
b) Excessive bowing or slippage of the slack side indicates insufficient tension.
c) If the belts squeal as the motor is started, or at some subsequent peak load, the belts
are not tight enough to deliver the torque that is demanded by the motor.
5. If any of the conditions that are listed under (4) are evident, stop the drive and readjust the
belts.
6. If conditions persist, check the sheave alignment as outlined in the previous sections.
7. The belt tension on a newly installed drive should be checked throughout the first day of
continuous operation by observing the slack side span. After a few days of operation, the
belts will fully seat themselves in the sheave grooves, and further readjustment may be
necessary. Use the steps and guidelines above as necessary.
V-belt drive monitoring and protection
1. Use all of the information in these sections to ensure that the v-belt drive is properly
installed for correct operation and long life.
2. Keep the v-belts clean. Exposure to dirt and grease can reduce belt life. Maintaining a
clean drive is the one of the best practices a user can employ to ensure drive longevity.
3. Always follow safety procedures. Never adjust any components of the v-belt drive while the
unit is in operation.
4. Always observe v-belt running operation through the mesh portions of the drive guard at a
safe distance.
5. Always keep all appendages, clothing, and site tooling out of reach while the drive is
running. Failure to do so could result in personal injury and unit damage.
6. Never run the unit without the drive guard in place.
48 XHD Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manual